By TC News Desk
Agartala, 11th March 2025: Khowai has once again witnessed the resurgence of violence by the so-called “nego mafia,” as a contractor was reportedly threatened to withdraw a tender. The incident prompted the contractor Biplab Das to file a formal complaint with the Khowai police station this afternoon. Copies of the complaint were also sent to the District Superintendent of Police and the Chief Minister, Das confirmed.
Speaking to media personnel, Das revealed that he had secured a valid tender for road repair work from Shibbari Road to Barbil Tehsil under the Khowai’s Public Works Department. The tender ID numbers are 2025 CEPWD 58903-j and CEPWD 58904. However, after winning the contract, Das began receiving threatening phone calls pressuring him to relinquish the tender. “If I don’t withdraw the contract, I fear for my safety,” Das stated.
The contractor described how the nego mafia has been a persistent issue in the district, particularly since the change of government in 2018. Despite two elections and seven years of BJP rule, the reign of terror by these groups continues unabated. Das alleged that the Khowai Division office of the Public Works Department has become a hub for gang activity, making it nearly impossible for contractors to submit tenders in accordance with government rules and guidelines.
Local contractors have reportedly faced repeated harassment from the gang, with innocent and ordinary workers bearing the brunt of the violence. The situation, which had been relatively quiet for a few days, has escalated again following a change in the Khowai mandal president.
Das expressed hope that the Chief Minister and the District Superintendent of Police would take decisive action against the nego mafia. “I want justice,” he said, urging authorities to address the issue and ensure the safety of contractors in the region.
